The immune system plays a very important role in maintaining a healthy body. It consists of cells, organs and tissues that work together to detect and eliminate germs and other organisms that can cause health problems. When the immune system is in good condition, a person is less susceptible to illnesses, but the system may fail sometimes, and this causes the body to lose its ability to defend itself against infections and diseases. Therefore, it is vital for every human being to make extra efforts to ensure that their immune systems are in tiptop condition. One way to do this is to consume immune system boosting food.
8 Immune System Boosting Foods are:
1. Garlic
Garlic has been considered a miracle food since thousands of years ago. The Egyptians had such high regard for garlic, that they used it as a form of currency. This food contains a number of sulphuric compounds that offer great health benefits, and one of them is allicin, a valuable compound that can protect the body from a wide variety of illnesses.
2. Ginger
Ginger is commonly used as an ingredient for cooking and baking, and it also has healing properties that can help the body ward off illnesses. It can reduce migraines, motion sickness and heartburn, and help prevent ovarian and colon cancers.
3. Broccoli
Broccoli contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals that can strengthen the immune system. It has vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E, as well as antioxidant compounds and anti-cancer agents that can combat detrimental germs in the body.
4. Pumpkin
Pumpkin is known to be rich in beta carotene, which is the most important substance in vitamin A. This substance has strong antioxidant qualities, and it can enhance the communication of cells in the immune system and prevent cancer.
5. Red Bell Pepper
Other than making sauces more flavorful, red bell pepper can also increase energy and provide the body with lots of vitamin A and vitamin C. Regular consumption of this food can reduce the risk of breast and prostrate cancer as well as cataract and macular degeneration.
6. Oysters
Oysters are not everybody's favorite food, because they are gooey and slimy and they have a strange taste. However, some people claim that oysters have aphrodisiacal qualities. According to physicians, oysters are an excellent source of zinc, an important mineral that strengthens the T cells in the body. These cells help to maintain the health of the body by detecting the presence germs and antigens.
7. Yogurt or Kefir
Consuming yogurt or kefir brings great health benefits. These foods contain a form of helpful bacteria that can eliminate parasites and germs in the intestines, which will result in a healthy digestive system. For better nutrition, you can add some strawberries and blueberries to your yogurt.
8. Oregano
Oregano is an indispensable ingredient for those who love Italian food. It contains high levels of antioxidants, flavoniods and phenolic acids, which are substances that can promote the immune system. It can be combined with tomatoes, garlic and meat for an ultimate immune system boosting meal.
